Systems and methods for digital x-ray imaging

ABSTRACT

X-ray detectors for generating digital images are disclosed. An example digital X-ray detector includes: a scintillation screen; a reflector configured to reflect light generated by the scintillation screen; and a digital imaging sensor configured to generate a digital image of the light reflected by the reflector.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.No. 62/627,473, filed Feb. 7, 2018, entitled “X-Ray Detectors forGenerating Digital Images,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/627,469, filed Feb. 7, 2018, entitled “Systems and Methods forDigital X-Ray Imaging,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/627,464, filed Feb. 7, 2018, entitled “Systems and Methods forDigital X-Ray Imaging,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/627,466, filed Feb. 7, 2018, entitled “Radiography BackscatterShields and X-Ray Imaging Systems Including Backscatter Shields.” Theentireties of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/627,473,U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/627,469, U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/627,464, and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/627,466 are incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure relates generally to radiography and, more particularly,to systems and methods for digital X-ray imaging.

SUMMARY

Systems and methods for digital X-ray imaging are disclosed,substantially as illustrated by and described in connection with atleast one of the figures, as set forth more completely in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentdisclosure will become better understood when the following detaileddescription is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in whichlike characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example handheld X-ray imaging systemto generate and output digital images and/or video based on incidentX-rays, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the example handheld X-ray imaging systemof FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first portion of the handheld X-rayimaging system of FIG. 1, including an X-ray generator, a power supply,an operator control handle.

FIG. 4 is a more detailed view of the first portion of the handheldX-ray imaging system of FIG. 3 including the example handle.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate perspective views of the example handle ofFIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a partially exploded view of the example digital X-raydetector of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first portion of the handheld X-rayimaging system of FIG. 1, including a digital X-ray detector assembly.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the example digital detector housing, thescintillator, and the reflector.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the example digital X-ray detector of FIG. 1,illustrating imaging of incident X-rays by the digital X-ray detector.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the handheld X-ray imaging system of FIG. 1,illustrating scanning of an object under test by directing X-rays fromthe X-ray tube to the X-ray detector.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart representative of example machine readableinstructions which may be executed by the example computing device ofFIG. 2 to perform digital X-ray imaging, in accordance with aspects ofthis disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an example computing system that may beused to implement the computing device of FIG. 2.

The figures are not necessarily to scale. Wherever appropriate, similaror identical reference numerals are used to refer to similar oridentical components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed example digital X-ray detectors include: a scintillationscreen; a reflector configured to reflect light generated by thescintillation screen; and a digital imaging sensor configured togenerate a digital image of the light reflected by the reflector.

In some example digital X-ray detectors, the reflector has substantiallythe same dimensions as the scintillation screen. In some examples, thereflector and the scintillation screen are arranged at an angle lessthan or equal to 45 degrees. In some such examples, the reflector andthe scintillation screen are arranged at substantially a 30 degreeangle.

In some example digital X-ray detectors, the digital imaging sensor isoriented perpendicularly to the scintillation screen. Some exampledigital X-ray detectors further include a bracket to adjust an angle ofthe digital imaging sensor with respect to the reflector. Some exampledigital X-ray detectors further include a slotted bracket to adjust adistance between the digital imaging sensor and the reflector. Someexample digital X-ray detectors further include a lens coupled to thedigital imaging sensor to focus the digital imaging sensor on thereflector.

Some example digital X-ray detectors further include a housing to holdthe scintillation screen and the reflector. In some such examples, thehousing includes shielded carbon fiber. In some examples, the housing isconfigured to attach to a frame holding the digital imaging sensor. Someexample digital X-ray detectors further include at least one of areflective element or a refractive element to direct the light betweenthe scintillation screen and the digital imaging sensor.

Disclosed example portable X-ray scanners includes: an X-ray detectorhaving a scintillation screen, a reflector configured to reflect lightgenerated by the scintillation screen, and a digital imaging sensorconfigured to generate digital images of the light reflected by thereflector; an X-ray tube configured to output X-ray radiation; and aframe configured to hold the X-ray detector and the X-ray tube.

Some example portable X-ray scanners further include a triggerconfigured to control the X-ray tube to output the X-ray radiation inresponse to user input. Some example portable X-ray scanners furtherinclude a housing coupled to the frame and configured to hold thescintillation screen and the reflector. Some example portable X-rayscanners further include a bracket configured to adjust an angle of thedigital imaging sensor with respect to the reflector.

Some example portable X-ray scanners further include a display deviceconfigured to display the digital images. In some examples, the displaydevice is configured to display the digital images in real-time. In someexamples, the display device is configured to receive the digital imagesvia wireless communications. Some example portable X-ray scannersfurther include at least one of a reflective element or a refractiveelement to direct the light between the scintillation screen and thedigital imaging sensor.

As used herein, the term “real-time” refers to the actual time elapsedin the performance of a computation by a computing device, the result ofthe computation being required for the continuation of a physicalprocess (i.e., no significant delays are introduced). For example,real-time display of captured images includes processing captured imagedata and displaying the resulting output images to create the perceptionto a user that the images are displayed immediately upon capture. Asused herein, the term “portable” includes handheld (e.g., capable ofbeing carried and operated by a single person) and/or wheeled (e.g.,capable of being transported and operated while wheels are attachedand/or placed on wheels).

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example handheld X-ray imaging system100 to generate and output digital images and/or video based on incidentX-rays. The example handheld X-ray imaging system 100 may be used toperform non-destructive testing (NDT), medical scanning, securityscanning, and/or any other scanning application.

The system 100 of FIG. 1 includes a frame 102 that holds an X-raygenerator 104 and an X-ray detector 106. In the example of FIG. 1, theframe 102 is C-shaped, such that the X-ray generator 104 directs X-rayradiation toward the X-ray detector 106. As described in more detailbelow, the frame 102 is positionable (e.g., held by an operator,supported by an external support structure and/or manipulated by theoperator, etc.) around an object to be scanned with X-rays. The exampleframe 102 is constructed using carbon fiber and/or machined aluminum.

The X-ray generator 104 is located on a first section 108 of theC-shaped frame 102 generates and outputs X-ray radiation, whichtraverses and/or scatters based on the state of the object under test.The X-ray detector 106 is located on a second section 110 of the frame102 (e.g., opposite the first section 108) and receives incidentradiation generated by the X-ray generator 104.

The example frame 102 may be manipulated using one or more handles 112,114. A first one of the handles 112 is an operator control handle, andenables an operator to both mechanically manipulate the frame 102 andcontrol the operation of the handheld X-ray imaging system 100. A secondone of the handles 114 is adjustable and may be secured to provide theoperator with leverage to manipulate the frame 102. The example handle114 may be oriented with multiple degrees of freedom and/or adjustedalong a length of a central section 116 of the frame 102.

During operation, the handheld X-ray imaging system 100 generatesdigital images (e.g., digital video and/or digital still images) fromthe X-ray radiation. The handheld X-ray imaging system 100 may store thedigital images on one or more storage devices, display the digitalimages on a display device 118, and/or transmit the digital images to aremote receiver. The example display device 118 is attachable to theexample frame 102 and/or may be oriented for viewing by the operator.The display device 118 may also be detached from the frame 102. Whendetached, the display device 118 receives the digital images (e.g.,still images and/or video) via a wireless data connection. Whenattached, the display device 118 may receive the digital images via awired connection and/or a wireless connection.

A power supply 120, such as a detachable battery, is attached to theframe 102 and provides power to the X-ray generator 104, the X-raydetector 106, and/or other circuitry of the handheld X-ray imagingsystem 100. An example power supply 120 that may be used is alithium-ion battery pack. The display device 118 may receive power fromthe power supply 120 and/or from another power source such as aninternal battery of the display device 118.

The example central section 116 of the frame 102 is coupled to the firstsection 108 via a joint 122 and to the second section 110 via a joint124. The example joints 122, 124 are hollow to facilitate routing ofcabling between the sections 108, 110, 116. The joints 122, 124 enablethe first section 108 and the second section 110 to be folded toward thecenter section to further improve the compactness of the handheld X-rayimaging system 100 when not in use (e.g., during storage and/or travel).

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example digital X-ray imaging system 200that may be used to implement the handheld X-ray imaging system 100 ofFIG. 1. The example digital X-ray imaging system 200 of FIG. 2 includesa frame 202 holding an X-ray generator 204, an X-ray detector 206, acomputing device 208, a battery 210, one or more display device(s) 212,one or more operator input device(s) 214, and one or more handle(s) 216.

The X-ray generator 204 includes an X-ray tube 218, a collimator 220,and a shield switch 222. The X-ray tube 218 generates X-rays whenenergized. In some examples, the X-ray tube 218 operates at voltagesbetween 40 kV and 120 kV. In combination with a shielding device, X-raytube voltages between 70 kV and 120 kV may be used while staying withinacceptable X-ray dosage limits for the operator. Other voltage rangesmay also be used.

The collimator 220 filters the X-ray radiation output by the X-ray tube218 to more narrowly direct the X-ray radiation at the X-ray detector206 and any intervening objects. The collimator 220 reduces the X-raydose to the operator of the system 200, reduces undesired X-ray energiesto the detector 206 resulting from X-ray scattering, and/or improves theresulting digital image generated at the X-ray detector 206.

The shield switch 222 selectively enables and/or disables the X-ray tube218 based on whether a backscatter shielding device 224 is attached tothe frame. The backscatter shielding device 224 reduces the dose to theoperator holding the frame 202 by providing shielding between thecollimator 220 and an object under test. The example backscattershielding device 224 includes a switch trigger configured to trigger theshield switch 222 when properly installed. For example, the shieldswitch 222 may be a reed switch or similar magnetically-triggeredswitch, and the backscatter shielding device 224 includes a magnet. Thereed switch and magnet are respectively positioned on the frame 202 andthe backscatter shielding device 224 such that the magnet triggers thereed switch when the backscatter shielding device 224 is attached to theframe 202. The shield switch 222 may include any type of a capacitivesensor, an inductive sensor, a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor,and/or any other type of proximity sensor.

The shield switch 222 is configured to disable the X-ray tube 218 whenthe backscatter shielding device 224 is not installed. The shield switch222 may be implemented using, for example, hardware circuitry and/or viasoftware executed by the computing device 208. In some examples, thecomputing device 208 may selectively override the shield switch 222 topermit operation of the X-ray tube 218 when the backscatter shieldingdevice 224 is not installed. The override may be controlled by anadministrator or other authorized user.

The X-ray detector 206 of FIG. 2 generates digital images based onincident X-ray radiation (e.g., generated by the X-ray tube 218 anddirected toward the X-ray detector 206 by the collimator 220). Theexample X-ray detector 206 includes a detector housing 226, which holdsa scintillation screen 228, a reflector 230, and a digital imagingsensor 232. The scintillation screen 228, the reflector 230, and thedigital imaging sensor 232 are components of a fluoroscopy detectionsystem 234. The example fluoroscopy detection system 234 is configuredso that the digital imaging sensor 232 (e.g., a camera, a sensor chip,etc.) receives the image indirectly via the scintillation screen 228 andthe reflector 230. In other examples, the fluoroscopy detection system234 includes a sensor panel (e.g., a CCD panel, a CMOS panel, etc.)configured to receive the X-rays directly, and to generate the digitalimages. An example implementation of the X-ray detector 206 is describedbelow with reference to FIGS. 5-8.

In some other examples, the scintillation screen 228, may be replacedwith a solid state panel that is coupled to the scintillation screen 228and has pixels that correspond to portions of the scintillation screen228. Example solid state panels may include CMOS X-ray panels and/or CCDX-ray panels.

The computing device 208 controls the X-ray tube 218, receives digitalimages from the X-ray detector 206 (e.g., from the digital imagingsensor 232), and outputs the digital images to the display device 212.Additionally or alternatively, the computing device 208 may storedigital images to a storage device. The computing device 208 may outputthe digital images as digital video to aid in real-time non-destructivetesting and/or store digital still images.

As mentioned above, the computing device 208 may provide the digitalimages to the display device(s) 212 via a wired connection or a wirelessconnection. To this end, the computing device 208 includes wirelesscommunication circuitry. For example, the display device(s) 212 may bedetachable from the frame 202 and held separately from the frame 202while the computing device 208 wirelessly transmits the digital imagesto the display device(s) 212. The display device(s) 212 may include asmartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a wireless monitoringdevice, and/or any other type of display device equipped with wiredand/or wireless communications circuitry to communicate with (e.g.,receive digital images from) the computing device 208.

In some examples, the computing device 208 adds data to the digitalimages to assist in subsequent analysis of the digital images. Exampledata includes a timestamp, a date stamp, geographic data, or a scannerinclination. The example computing device 208 adds the data to theimages by adding metadata to the digital image file(s) and/or bysuperimposing a visual representation of the data onto a portion of thedigital images.

The operator input device(s) 214 enable the operator to configure and/orcontrol the example digital X-ray imaging system 200. For example, theoperator input device(s) 214 may provide input to the computing device208, which controls operation and/or configures the settings of thedigital X-ray imaging system 200. Example operator input device(s) 214include a trigger (e.g., for controlling activation of the X-ray tube218), buttons, switches, analog joysticks, thumbpads, trackballs, and/orany other type of user input device.

The handle(s) 216 are attached to the frame 202 and enable physicalcontrol and manipulation of the frame 202, the X-ray generator 204, andthe X-ray detector 206. In some examples, one or more of the operatorinput device(s) 214 are implemented on the handle(s) 216 to enable auser to both physically manipulate and control operation of the digitalX-ray imaging system 200.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the first portion 108 of the handheldX-ray imaging system 100 of FIG. 1, including the X-ray generator 104,the power supply 120, and the operator control handle 112. FIG. 3 isillustrated with a portion of a housing 302, while a second portion ofthe housing (shown in FIG. 1) is omitted for visibility of othercomponents.

The example first portion 108 is further coupled to a computing device304, such as the computing device 208 of FIG. 2. The computing device304 is attached to the frame 102 via a printed circuit board 306.

An X-ray tube 308 (e.g., the X-ray tube 218 of FIG. 2) is coupled to acollimator 310 (e.g., the collimator 220 of FIG. 2) and controlled bythe computing device 304 and/or by an operator input device on thehandle 112. As shown in FIG. 3, the handle 112 may include an X-raytrigger 312 (e.g., one of the operator input device(s) 214 of FIG. 2).When actuated (e.g., by the operator of the handheld X-ray imagingsystem 100), the X-ray trigger 312 activates the X-ray tube 308 togenerate X-ray radiation. The X-ray trigger 312 may activate the X-raytube 308 directly and/or via the computing device 304.

The collimator 310 filters X-ray radiation generated by the X-ray tube308 to reduce the X-ray radiation that is not directed at the X-raydetector 106 and/or to increase the proportion of X-ray radiation thatis directed at the X-ray detector 106 (e.g., radiation that ends upbeing incident on a scintillator of the X-ray detector 106) relative toradiation not directed at the X-ray detector 106.

A targeting camera 314 is coupled to the computing device 304 to enablean operator of the handheld X-ray imaging system 100 to determine atarget of generated X-rays. The example targeting camera 314 generatesand outputs digital images (e.g., digital video, digital still images,etc.) to the computing device 304 for display to the operator via thedisplay device 118. The digital images of the target (e.g., an exteriorof the target) may be saved in association with the digital images ofthe X-ray scanning to provide contextual information about the locationor object from which digital X-ray images are captured. Additionally oralternatively, a laser may be projected from the location of thetargeting camera 314 toward the X-ray detector 106. The laserilluminates an approximate location on a workpiece that is being scannedby the digital X-ray imaging system 100 and/or output to the displaydevice 118.

FIG. 4 is a more detailed view of the first portion 108 of the handheldX-ray imaging system of FIG. 3 including the example handle 112. Toimprove the handling of the digital X-ray imaging system 100, the handle112 is capable of attachment to multiple locations on the frame 102. Thehandle 112 is illustrated at a first location 402 on the frame 102 inFIG. 4. In the example of FIG. 4, the handle 112 is secured to thehousing 302 via multiple screws.

The handle 112 may be detached from the first location 402 and attachedat a second location 404. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the second location404 on the housing 302 includes multiple screw nuts 406 a-406 c and adata connector 408, which match screw nuts and a data connector at thefirst location 402. The example handle 112 may be attached to the secondlocation 404 by connecting a corresponding connector on the handle 112to the data connector 408 and screwing the handle into the screw nuts406 a-406 c.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate perspective views of the example handle 112of FIGS. 1 and 3. As mentioned above, the handle 112 includes thetrigger 312, which enables and/or activates the X-ray tube 308 to outputthe X-ray radiation. The handle 112 includes additional input devices502, 504 (e.g., operator input devices 214 of FIG. 2). The input device502 is a thumbstick, which can be used to input commands to thecomputing device 304, such as navigating menus, confirming selections,configuring the X-ray tube 308 and/or the X-ray generator 106, changingviews and/or any other type of operator input. The input device 504 is apush button that may be used by an operator to confirm and/or cancel aselection. The computing device 304 controls the X-ray tube 308, theX-ray detector 106 (e.g., the X-ray generator 206 and/or the digitalimaging sensor 232 of FIG. 2), the display device 118, and/or any otheraspect of the digital X-ray imaging system 100 based on input from thetrigger 312, the input devices 502, 504, and/or any other input devices.

The handle 112 includes a data connector 506, which mates to the dataconnector(s) 408 on the housing 302. The data connectors 408, 506establish a hard-wired connection between the trigger 312 and/or theinput devices 502, 504 and the computing device 304 and/or othercircuitry.

The handle 112 includes input guards 508, which protect the inputdevices 502, 504 from accidental damage. The input guards 508 extendfrom the handle 112 adjacent the input devices 502, 504 and farther thanthe input devices 502, 504.

The example handle 112 further includes a trigger lock 510. The triggerlock 510 is a mechanical lock that, when activated, mechanicallyprevents activation of the trigger 312. The example trigger lock 510 isa push-button safety that locks the trigger 312 against depression bythe operator.

FIG. 6 is a partially exploded view of the example digital X-raydetector 106 of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the exampledigital X-ray detector 106 of FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 6, theX-ray detector 106 includes a detector housing 602, a scintillationscreen 604, and a reflector 606. The scintillation screen 604 and thereflector 606 are held within the housing 602 and are illustrated inFIG. 6 to show the relationship between the shape of the housing 602 andthe geometries of the scintillation screen 604 and the reflector 606.

The detector housing 602 may be constructed using carbon fiber,aluminum, and/or any other material and/or combination of materials. Theexample detector housing 602 may function as a soft X-ray filter toreduce undesired X-ray radiation at the scintillation screen 604,thereby reducing noise in the resulting digital image. The scintillationscreen 604 and/or the reflector 606 may be attached to the detectorhousing 602 using adhesive (e.g., epoxy, glue, etc.) and/or any otherattachment technique. In some examples, the detector housing 602 islined with a layer of lead or another X-ray shielding material to lowerthe dose to the operator in a handheld system.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the example digital detector housing, thescintillator, and the reflector. FIG. 9 is a side view of the exampledigital X-ray detector 106 of FIG. 1, illustrating imaging of incidentX-rays by the digital X-ray detector. As illustrated in FIG. 9, adigital imaging sensor 612 is oriented to capture light generated by thescintillation screen 604 in response to incident X-ray radiation.

The scintillation screen 604 converts incident X-rays 608 to visiblelight 610. An example scintillation screen 604 that may be used in ahandheld X-ray scanner has a surface area of 4 inches by 6 inches. Thesize and material of the scintillation screen 604 at least partiallydetermines the size, brightness, and/or resolution of the resultingdigital images. The example scintillation screen is Gadox (Gadoliniumoxysulphide) doped with Terbium, which emits a peak visible light at awavelength of substantially 560 nm.

The example reflector 606 is a mirror that reflects visible lightgenerated by the scintillation screen 604 to the digital imaging sensor612 (e.g., via a lens 614). The example reflector 606 has the samesurface area (e.g., 4 inches by 6 inches) as the scintillation screen604, and is oriented at an angle 616 to direct the visible light 610 tothe digital imaging sensor 612 and/or the lens 614. An example angle 616is 30 degrees or substantially 30 degrees (e.g., +/−3 degrees), whichenables a 4 inch by 6 inch scintillation screen and a 4 inch by 6 inchreflector 606 to fit within a housing having a thickness 618 of lessthan 2.5 inches. In other examples, the angle 616 is an angle less than45 degrees. Other sizes and/or geometries may be used for thescintillation screen 604 and/or the reflector 606. Additionally oralternatively, the digital X-ray detector 106 may include optics such asprisms to direct the visible light 610 to the digital imaging sensor612.

The example digital imaging sensor 612 is a solid state sensor such as aCMOS camera. In the illustrated example using the scintillation screen604 and the reflector 606, and a 6 mm lens 614, the digital imagingsensor 612 has a field of view of 143 degrees to capture light fromsubstantially the entirety of the reflector 606.

The digital imaging sensor 612 is coupled to an imager bracket 620 via amounting brackets 622. The detector housing 602 is also coupled to theimager bracket 620. The imager bracket 620 couples both the detectorhousing 602 and the digital imaging sensor 612 to the frame 102 of thehandheld X-ray imaging system 100.

The mounting brackets 622 includes slots 624 to which an imaging bracket626 is adjustably coupled. The digital imaging sensor 612 is attached tothe imaging bracket 626 (e.g., via a printed circuit board). The imagingbracket 626 may be adjusted and secured along the length of the slots624 to adjust an angle of the digital imaging sensor 612 relative to thereflector 606. The field of view of the digital imaging sensor 612 isoriented substantially perpendicularly to the scintillation screen,within the angular limits permitted using the slots 624 and the imagingbracket 626.

The example imager bracket 620 may include a data connector 628 (FIG. 8)to enable sufficient data throughput from the digital imaging sensor 612to a computing device or other image display and/or image storagedevices. An example data connector 628 may be a USB 3.0 connector toconnect a USB 3.0 bus between the digital imaging sensor 612 and thereceiving device. The USB 3.0 bus provides sufficient bandwidth betweenthe digital imaging device 608 and the receiving device forhigh-definition video or better resolution.

While an example implementation of the X-ray detector 106 is describedabove, other example implementations of the X-ray detector 106 includeusing a solid state image sensor, such as a CMOS panel or a CCD panel,coupled directly to a scintillator. The CMOS panel produces digitalimages based on visible light generated by the scintillator, and outputsthe digital images to the computing device 304.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the handheld X-ray imaging system of FIG. 1,illustrating scanning of an object 1002 under test by directing X-rays1004 from the X-ray tube 308 to the X-ray detector 106. As mentionedabove, the collimator 310 reduces X-ray radiation that is not directedat the X-ray detector 106, so the concentration of the X-ray radiation1004 that is not scattered by the object 1002 is incident on the X-raydetector 106.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart representative of example machine readableinstructions 1100 which may be executed by the example computing device208 of FIG. 2 to perform digital X-ray imaging. The example machinereadable instructions 1100 of FIG. 11 are described below with referenceto the digital X-ray imaging system 200 of FIG. 2, but may be performedby the digital X-ray imaging system 100 of FIG. 1.

At block 1102, the example computing device 208 initializes the X-raydetector 206. For example, the computing device 208 may verify that theX-ray detector 206 is in communication with the computing device 208and/or is configured to capture digital images of X-ray radiation. Atblock 1103, an operator of the digital X-ray imaging system 200 mayposition the frame 202 adjacent on object under test, such that theobject under test is located between the X-ray detector 206 and theX-ray tube 218.

At block 1104, the computing device 208 determines whether a trigger isactivated. For example, the computing device 208 may activate the X-raytube 218 in response to activation of a trigger (e.g., a physicaltrigger, a button, a switch, etc.) by an operator. If the trigger hasnot been activated (block 1104), control returns to block 1104 to awaitactivation of the trigger.

When the trigger is activated (block 1104), at block 1105 the computingdevice 208 determines whether the X-ray tube voltage is at least athreshold voltage. For example, the X-ray tube voltage may be configuredto be between 70 kV and 120 kV, in which case the computing device 208requires the backscatter shielding device 224 to be detected (e.g., viathe shield switch 222).

If the X-ray tube voltage is at least the threshold (block 1105), atblock 1106 the computing device 208 determines whether a backscattershield is detected. For example, the computing device 208 may determinewhether the backscatter shield (e.g., the backscatter shielding device224) is installed using the shield switch 222. If the backscatter shieldis not detected (block 1106), at block 1108 the computing device 208disables the X-ray tube 218 and outputs a backscatter shield alert(e.g., via a visual and/or audible alarm, via the display device 212,etc.). Control then returns to block 1104.

If the backscatter shield is detected (block 1106), or if the X-ray tubevoltage is less than the threshold (block 1105), at block 1110 the X-raytube 218 generates and outputs X-ray radiation. At block 1112, the X-raydetector 106 (e.g., via the scintillation screen 228, the reflector 230,and the digital imaging sensor 232, and/or via a solid state panelcoupled to a scintillator) captures digital image(s) (e.g., digitalstill images and/or digital video). The X-ray detector 106 provides thecaptured digital image(s) to the computing device 208. At block 1114,the computing device 208 adds the auxiliary data to the digitalimage(s). Example auxiliary data includes a timestamp, a date stamp,geographic data, and/or an inclination of the frame 202, the X-raydetector 206, the X-ray tube 218, and/or any other component of thedigital X-ray imaging system 200. At block 1116, the computing device208 outputs the digital image(s) to the display device(s) 218 (e.g., viaa wired and/or wireless connection). In some examples, the computingdevice 208 outputs the digital image(s) to an external computing devicesuch as a laptop, a smartphone, a server, a tablet computer, a personalcomputer, and/or any other type of external computing device.

At block 1118, the computing device 208 determines whether the digitalimage(s) are to be stored (e.g., in a storage device). If the digitalimage(s) are to be stored (block 1118), at block 1120 the examplecomputing device 208 stores the image(s). The example computing device208 may be configured to store the digital image(s) in one or moreavailable storage devices, such as a removable storage device.

After storing the image(s) (block 1120), or if the digital image(s) arenot to be stored (block 1118), control returns to block 1104. In someexamples, blocks 1110-1120 may be iterated substantially continuouslyuntil the trigger is deactivated.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an example computing system 1200 that maybe used to implement the computing device 208 of FIG. 2. The examplecomputing system 1200 may be implemented using a personal computer, aserver, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a workstation, a tabletcomputer, and/or any other type of computing device.

The example computing system 1200 of FIG. 12 includes a processor 1202.The example processor 1202 may be any general purpose central processingunit (CPU) from any manufacturer. In some other examples, the processor1202 may include one or more specialized processing units, such as RISCprocessors with an ARM core, graphic processing units, digital signalprocessors, and/or system-on-chips (SoC). The processor 1202 executesmachine readable instructions 1204 that may be stored locally at theprocessor (e.g., in an included cache or SoC), in a random access memory1206 (or other volatile memory), in a read only memory 1208 (or othernon-volatile memory such as FLASH memory), and/or in a mass storagedevice 1210. The example mass storage device 1210 may be a hard drive, asolid state storage drive, a hybrid drive, a RAID array, and/or anyother mass data storage device.

A bus 1212 enables communications between the processor 1202, the RAM1206, the ROM 1208, the mass storage device 1210, a network interface1214, and/or an input/output interface 1216.

The example network interface 1214 includes hardware, firmware, and/orsoftware to connect the computing system 1200 to a communicationsnetwork 1218 such as the Internet. For example, the network interface1214 may include IEEE 1202.X-compliant wireless and/or wiredcommunications hardware for transmitting and/or receivingcommunications.

The example I/O interface 1216 of FIG. 12 includes hardware, firmware,and/or software to connect one or more input/output devices 1220 to theprocessor 1202 for providing input to the processor 1202 and/orproviding output from the processor 1202. For example, the I/O interface1216 may include a graphics processing unit for interfacing with adisplay device, a universal serial bus port for interfacing with one ormore USB-compliant devices, a FireWire, a field bus, and/or any othertype of interface. Example I/O device(s) 1220 may include a keyboard, akeypad, a mouse, a trackball, a pointing device, a microphone, an audiospeaker, an optical media drive, a multi-touch touch screen, a gesturerecognition interface, a display device (e.g., the display device(s)118, 212) a magnetic media drive, and/or any other type of input and/oroutput device.

The example computing system 1200 may access a non-transitory machinereadable medium 1222 via the I/O interface 1216 and/or the I/O device(s)1220. Examples of the machine readable medium 1222 of FIG. 12 includeoptical discs (e.g., compact discs (CDs), digital versatile/video discs(DVDs), Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks),portable storage media (e.g., portable flash drives, secure digital (SD)cards, etc.), and/or any other type of removable and/or installedmachine readable media.

Example wireless interfaces, protocols, and/or standards that may besupported and/or used by the network interface(s) 1214 and/or the I/Ointerface(s) 1216, such as to communicate with the display device(s)212, include wireless personal area network (WPAN) protocols, such asBluetooth (IEEE 802.15); near field communication (NFC) standards;wireless local area network (WLAN) protocols, such as WiFi (IEEE802.11); cellular standards, such as 2G/2G+(e.g., GSM/GPRS/EDGE, andIS-95 or cdmaOne) and/or 2G/2G+(e.g., CDMA2000, UMTS, and HSPA); 4Gstandards, such as WiMAX (IEEE 802.16) and LTE; Ultra-Wideband (UWB);etc. Example wired interfaces, protocols, and/or standards that may besupported and/or used by the network interface(s) 1214 and/or the I/Ointerface(s) 1216, such as to communicate with the display device(s)212, include comprise Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), Fiber Distributed DataInterface (FDDI), Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), cabletelevision and/or internet (ATSC, DVB-C, DOCSIS), Universal Serial Bus(USB) based interfaces, etc.

The processor 202, the network interface(s) 1214, and/or the I/Ointerface(s) 1216, and/or the display device 212, may perform signalprocessing operations such as, for example, filtering, amplification,analog-to-digital conversion and/or digital-to-analog conversion,up-conversion/down-conversion of baseband signals, encoding/decoding,encryption/decryption, modulation/demodulation, and/or any otherappropriate signal processing.

The computing device 208 and/or the display device 212 may use one ormore antennas for wireless communications and/or one or more wiredport(s) for wired communications. The antenna(s) may be any type ofantenna (e.g., directional antennas, omnidirectional antennas,multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antennas, etc.) suited for thefrequencies, power levels, diversity, and/or other parameters requiredfor the wireless interfaces and/or protocols used to communicate. Theport(s) may include any type of connectors suited for the communicationsover wired interfaces/protocols supported by the computing device 208and/or the display device 212. For example, the port(s) may include anEthernet over twisted pair port, a USB port, an HDMI port, a passiveoptical network (PON) port, and/or any other suitable port forinterfacing with a wired or optical cable.

The present methods and systems may be realized in hardware, software,and/or a combination of hardware and software. The present methodsand/or systems may be realized in a centralized fashion in at least onecomputing system, or in a distributed fashion where different elementsare spread across several interconnected computing systems. Any kind ofcomputing system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methodsdescribed herein is suited. A typical combination of hardware andsoftware may include a general-purpose computing system with a programor other code that, when being loaded and executed, controls thecomputing system such that it carries out the methods described herein.Another typical implementation may comprise an application specificintegrated circuit or chip. Some implementations may comprise anon-transitory machine-readable (e.g., computer readable) medium (e.g.,FLASH drive, optical disk, magnetic storage disk, or the like) havingstored thereon one or more lines of code executable by a machine,thereby causing the machine to perform processes as described herein. Asused herein, the term “non-transitory machine-readable medium” isdefined to include all types of machine readable storage media and toexclude propagating signals.

As utilized herein the terms “circuits” and “circuitry” refer tophysical electronic components (i.e. hardware) and any software and/orfirmware (“code”) which may configure the hardware, be executed by thehardware, and or otherwise be associated with the hardware. As usedherein, for example, a particular processor and memory may comprise afirst “circuit” when executing a first one or more lines of code and maycomprise a second “circuit” when executing a second one or more lines ofcode. As utilized herein, “and/or” means any one or more of the items inthe list joined by “and/or”. As an example, “x and/or y” means anyelement of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “xand/or y” means “one or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y,and/or z” means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x,y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, “x, y and/or z” means“one or more of x, y and z”. As utilized herein, the term “exemplary”means serving as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. Asutilized herein, the terms “e.g.,” and “for example” set off lists ofone or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations. Asutilized herein, circuitry is “operable” to perform a function wheneverthe circuitry comprises the necessary hardware and code (if any isnecessary) to perform the function, regardless of whether performance ofthe function is disabled or not enabled (e.g., by a user-configurablesetting, factory trim, etc.).

While the present method and/or system has been described with referenceto certain implementations, it will be understood by those skilled inthe art that various changes may be made and equivalents may besubstituted without departing from the scope of the present methodand/or system. For example, block and/or components of disclosedexamples may be combined, divided, re-arranged, and/or otherwisemodified. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the presentdisclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, the presentmethod and/or system are not limited to the particular implementationsdisclosed. Instead, the present method and/or system will include allimplementations falling within the scope of the appended claims, bothliterally and under the doctrine of equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A digital X-ray detector, comprising: ascintillation screen; a reflector configured to reflect light generatedby the scintillation screen; and a digital imaging sensor configured togenerate a digital image of the light reflected by the reflector.
 2. Thedigital X-ray detector as defined in claim 1, wherein the reflector hassubstantially the same dimensions as the scintillation screen.
 3. Thedigital X-ray detector as defined in claim 1, wherein the reflector andthe scintillation screen are arranged at an angle less than or equal to45 degrees.
 4. The digital X-ray detector as defined in claim 3, whereinthe reflector and the scintillation screen are arranged at substantiallya 30 degree angle.
 5. The digital X-ray detector as defined in claim 1,wherein the digital imaging sensor is oriented perpendicularly to thescintillation screen.
 6. The digital X-ray detector as defined in claim1, further comprising a bracket configured to adjust an angle of thedigital imaging sensor with respect to the reflector.
 7. The digitalX-ray detector as defined in claim 1, further comprising a slottedbracket configured to adjust a distance between the digital imagingsensor and the reflector.
 8. The digital X-ray detector as defined inclaim 1, further comprising a lens coupled to the digital imaging sensorto focus the digital imaging sensor on the reflector.
 9. The digitalX-ray detector as defined in claim 1, further comprising a housingconfigured to hold the scintillation screen and the reflector.
 10. Thedigital X-ray detector as defined in claim 9, wherein the housingcomprises shielded carbon fiber.
 11. The digital X-ray detector asdefined in claim 9, wherein the housing is configured to attach to aframe holding the digital imaging sensor.
 12. The digital X-ray detectoras defined in claim 1, further comprising at least one of a reflectiveelement or a refractive element to direct the light between thescintillation screen and the digital imaging sensor.
 13. A portableX-ray scanner, comprising: an X-ray detector, comprising: ascintillation screen; a reflector configured to reflect light generatedby the scintillation screen; and a digital imaging sensor configured togenerate digital images of the light reflected by the reflector; anX-ray tube configured to output X-ray radiation; and a frame configuredto hold the X-ray detector and the X-ray tube.
 14. The portable X-rayscanner as defined in claim 13, further comprising a trigger configuredto control the X-ray tube to output the X-ray radiation in response touser input.
 15. The portable X-ray scanner as defined in claim 13,further comprising a housing coupled to the frame and configured to holdthe scintillation screen and the reflector.
 16. The portable X-rayscanner as defined in claim 13, further comprising a bracket configuredto adjust an angle of the digital imaging sensor with respect to thereflector.
 17. The portable X-ray scanner as defined in claim 13,further comprising a display device configured to display the digitalimages.
 18. The portable X-ray scanner as defined in claim 17, whereinthe display device is configured to display the digital images inreal-time.
 19. The portable X-ray scanner as defined in claim 13,wherein the display device is configured to receive the digital imagesvia wireless communications.
 20. The portable X-ray scanner as definedin claim 13, further comprising at least one of a reflective element ora refractive element to direct the light between the scintillationscreen and the digital imaging sensor.